USA, MN: Roundhouse Brewery officially relocates and opens in Nisswa

Roundhouse Brewery has officially relocated and reopened in Nisswa after leaving the Northern Pacific Center in Brainerd where the business started in 2016, the Brainerd Dispatch reported on August 21.

“Since then we've experienced growth because we've got a fantastic product and wonderful staff,” said co-owner Mark Lelwica. “We're able to create a very warm setting for people to enjoy.”

Lelwica and co-owner Dan Meyer first considered the move when their lease was coming up for renewal. Considering the need for expansion, they looked at their options and found that not only was a larger space available in Nisswa, but since it was home to Gull Dam Brewing Company, it was already equipped with brewing equipment.

“The building at Gull Dam was available as an option.” Lelwica said. “We made that decision because we'd be able to move into the location with minimal build up and minimal change of structure as it was. The equipment was still in place in the Gull Dam building and that came along with the purchase as well.”

The new, larger location also has space to expand into more entertainment, which he believes is important.

“We are in the beer industry,” Lelwica said. “But it's also evolved more into an entertainment industry. We've really become a gathering space and we wanted to kind of embrace that and grow into it.”

The building will allow them the flexibility to expand their entertainment and their brewing operation. There is a large outdoor space with a stage and ample space indoors as well.

“Going forward we'll be able not just to be a brewery experience, but we'll also be able to provide a host to private events,” Lelwica said. “And in the next six to eight months we're hoping to add a kitchen so we'll have a food offering as well as the 'wreck room,' which will start off as an ax throwing room. That will provide another source for entertainment.”

Eventually that room will have even more uses.

Lelwica said they are jumping back into providing the same products and services that their customers have grown to enjoy. The location hosted a soft opening Saturday, Aug. 15, complete with music and beer. They are already looking forward to providing a lively Oktoberfest celebration Thursday, Sept. 17. This would also likely coincide with their grand opening celebration.

“We'll continue with our normal lineup of beers and our Oktoberfest beer, which we call Der Zug, which is German for 'the train,'” Lelwica said. “Then we'll have polka music, lederhosen, sauerkraut, bratwurst and German food available.”

Roundhouse Brewery currently employs about a dozen employees, though there may be employment growth with the addition of a kitchen.

The brewery is open from noon to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 6 p.m. Sundays.

21 August, 2020